In the Karawanken

Cross-border hiking as a sign of peace

The route leads to Topitza via the Luschaalm.(Bild: Hannes Wallner)

Two regions, one goal: making a difference together. The three municipalities of Globasnitz, Bad Eisenkappel and Črna na Koroškem are organizing a hike on Saturday.

"We want to set an example for peace together," says Globasnitz mayor Bernard Sadovnik. There used to be fighting on the border with Slovenia, where there was also a smuggling route. In the spirit of peace, the three Geopark Karawanken communities of Globasnitz, Bad Eisenkappel and Črna na Koroškem (Slovenia) are now inviting people to take part in a hike. The trail leads from the Luschaalm in Eisenkappel via the Friedenskirche to the Topitza.

"Former top athletes from the three Geopark municipalities will accompany us," says Elisabeth Lobnik, Mayor of Bad Eisenkappel. Triathlete Constance Mochar (49), 2010 national long-distance champion, is taking part from Bad Eisenkappel, while slalom skier and World Cup winner Sabine Egger (47) is marching along from Globasnitz. The Slovenian ski racer Aleš Gorza (43) is also taking part.

The hike

Peace hike on the Topitza, Saturday, June 22, starting at 10 a.m. at the Alpengasthof Riepl, followed by Almkirchtag with the "Trio Alpe" at the Riepl.

"It's nice to revive the neighborhood," says Geopark Manager Gerald Hartmann. All three municipalities share one place on the hiking route: Koprivna.